It would be for protection against a Black Bear up close 25 feet or less using factory rounds.
What round (JHP,FMJ, etc) would you suggest?
Thinking of going with the Taurus Model 82 in 4" barrel to keep costs down.
Thanks,
Mike

I would strongly suggest something a bit larger than a .38 Special for backup duty. If this is your only option than I would suggest a relatively heavy hard cast bullet with a wide meplat for maximum penetration. JMHO.

I concur. A factory +P will only net about 100 fps more than the Special. But, if that is all you got it is better than nothing. Penetration is your friend. It might be worth checking with some of the custom ammo makers and see if they offer a more impressive loading. The one unintended encounter I had with a blackie was when I was bird hunting. Was carrying a SxS 20 gauge and once she started in my direction I let fly with a load of #6's into the ground at her feet. That was enough to change her mind, thankfully.

Gentlemen
Thanks for your help.
I do have a Taurus in 410/45LC
but think the 1 1/2" barrel is too short?

I would take the 410/45 over a 38sp +P every day.

Many thanks!
Canceling the order for the 38.
Loading 2 buckshots, then 3 45LC's
and hope I never have to use any.

Mike

I think that is the best choice of the two by far.

Wapitirod,
THANKS!

Mike the 38 is just fine but you'll need to follow these basic rules for small caliber handgun bear safety. First stand your ground. Second, stand your ground. Third stand your ground and last but not least hold the gun in your weak shooting hand, thrust it as far in front of your body as possible, keep standing your ground and wait till the bear goes to bite your handoff and the gun is good and inside the bears mouth. Then shoot and keep shooting until you either run out of bullets or lose your hand. Hence the reason for using your weak hand only. It's important to keep your strong hand for future hunting trips.

Sorry I did not get back to you sooner.... I was laughing so hard I almost died! Seriously, great sense of humor. THANKS!

You could use 38 to shoot some one else on the trip in the leg so your are sure to out run them. The bear will be to busy with them and you can get away. Lol
I actually heard that from an instructor at a hunters safety course. He pulled a little 25 auto out of his pocket and said this would save your life in bear attack. Kids didn't have sense of humor like I did.

Forget the "buckshot".